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COLUMBUS — There is no greater compliment that can be given to a Columbus Blue Jackets player than being compared to Rick Nash, the team’s all-time leader in goals, assists and points.

So, when Nash sees a bit of himself in Cayden Lindstrom, selected by the Blue Jackets with the No. 4 pick in the 2024 NHL Draft, it draws attention. Nash, the No. 1 pick in the 2002 NHL Draft, is 6-foot-4 and played at 211 pounds, comparable to Lindstrom (6-2, 213).

Last week at Blue Jackets development camp, Nash was questioned about whether Lindstrom reminded him of his younger self.

“I suppose so. I’m not sure,” remarked Nash, who currently serves as the director of player development for Columbus. “It appears that he possesses a slightly stronger stride and an excellent shot.”

We are truly thrilled to have him on board, recognizing the invaluable intangibles that he possesses, which cannot be taught by any coach or development program. We strongly believe that he holds a promising future ahead.

As a precautionary measure due to a back injury he suffered last season, the 18-year-old center was not able to fully participate in development camp. Despite this setback, he had an impressive performance during the previous season, accumulating 46 points (27 goals, 19 assists) along with 66 penalty minutes in 32 games for Medicine Hat of the Western Hockey League. This outstanding performance led him to win the Canadian Hockey League’s Top Prospect Award. Additionally, he contributed with a goal and an assist in four WHL playoff games.

Lindstrom expressed that he does not have any worries regarding his back.

He expressed, “Lately, I’ve been experiencing a positive state of mind. However, there are several areas that require improvement. It’s evident that transitioning from the junior level necessitates establishing good habits and maintaining unwavering consistency.”

I believe I made adjustments to certain aspects of my game, such as improving my defense and maintaining consistency. I focused on not allowing opponents to beat me to the puck and honing my stick skills.

The Blue Jackets are optimistic that he will follow a career path resembling Nash’s, as Nash managed to accumulate 547 points (289 goals, 258 assists) in 674 regular-season games with Columbus from 2002-12. Additionally, Nash achieved a total of 805 points (437 goals, 368 assists) in 1,060 NHL games for the Blue Jackets, New York Rangers, and Boston Bruins from 2002-18.

Lindstrom likely will head back to Medicine Hat this season, but Columbus can see its future at center being Lindstrom, Adam Fantilli (the No. 3 pick in the 2023 NHL Draft) and Cole Sillinger (No. 12 in the 2021 NHL Draft).

In order for Lindstrom to become an NHL player, he will have to enhance both his weight and strength.

Nash stated that those would be the primary factors, and afterwards, they would attempt to identify minor adjustments that could be made to his game to adapt to the professional level.

Lindstrom’s ambition is one thing he won’t need to work on.

He expressed his aspiration, saying, “My goal is to become a prominent player in the NHL within the next decade, if possible. I constantly strive to be the best version of myself and give my utmost effort in every aspect of my game.”

I am willing to do whatever it takes to become that player.